DENR expresses concern about water leaks in homes and buildings

MANILA, Philippines – There is a higher percentage of leaking water pipes in homes and buildings compared to pipes along roads in Metro Manila, a Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) official warned, even as water levels at the Angat Dam continued to decline yesterday .

DENR Undersecretary Carlos David urged residents to check their water meters when no one is using water to see if the pipes are leaking.

“If it moves without anyone using it, there is a leak. Report. That’s the homeowner’s responsibility,” he said.

David said more than 25 percent of the pipes along Metro Manila's streets are leaking, “and the leaks in homes and buildings will be much greater.” He did not give a number.

As of 8am yesterday, Angat's water level had dropped by 0.40 meters compared to its previous level of 185.18 meters. It was 27.22 meters below its normal flood level of 212 meters.

It is only 4.78 meters above its minimum operating water level of 180 meters.

While the National Water Resources Board has decided to maintain the 50 cubic meters per second allocation for Maynilad and Manila water until May 15, the NWRB must lower it by one centimeter or to 49 centimeters from May 16, David said .

He assured the public that despite the impending cut in Metro Manila's water allocation, there will continue to be no disruptions. –